"Forced posting" is a way to manipulate debit card processing systems, involving the scammer inputting a code that takes the card reader offline. The transaction the scammer makes is then verified, regardless of whether there is money in their bank account, according to Yonkers police.

The suspects allegedly entered the code as if it were their debit card's pin, authorizing the transaction without payment. Merchants and business owners would not realize the transaction was not valid until later.

Bank records that were verified by interviews with over 30 merchants show that from 2013 up until May, Robinson, Johnson and Hatwood engaged in "forced posting." The suspects allegedly performed the scam both as a group and individually, according to the United States Attorney's office.